BYD first electric BYD kei car is scheduled to be released in 2026; the first electric kei car debuts at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show 2025.
BYD regularly features in the news thanks to its high-quality products and constantly expanding technological potential. However, in a twist, BYD has also declared that it will launch a kei car which is its first-ever electric vehicle in Japan. The new model is historic in that it is the first electric kei car in Japan that is foreign-built. Let’s check out the details.
Design and Exterior Details
The first kei car made by BYD coincides with the typical attributes of kei cars in Japan. The tall, boxy profile has been demonstrated in spy shots and it is aimed at maximising interior space. The main features are the use of elements of rectangular lighting, a flat front fascia and small bonnet. On the side, BYD kei car features a flat roof, A-pillars that are doubled, square windows, flat beltline and round wheel arches.
Interior and Practical Features
The ground clearance and the overhangs of BYD kei car are low. There are wheels that are fitted at the farthest ends, a factor that is likely to increase the cabin space. The groove is visible above the rear fender, and this is an indication that there are sliding door rail tracks. Sliding doors guarantee smooth entry and exit and may be handy in loading up huge luggage. Sliding rear doors are fitted to various other kei cars like Suzuki Spacia and Honda N-Box.
On the back, BYD kei car has a flat windshield and a wiper on top. Just like other kei cars, the model manufactured by BYD will have a broad boot lid that the owner can access easily. The rear seats can be folded allowing a broad range of cargo and equipment to be carried.
Battery, Performance and Price Expectations
Although the official information has not been declared, the kei car of BYD to be used in Japan is likely to have a 20-kWh battery pack. It may cover a distance of about 180 km, according to WLTC. The kei car was capable of supporting speedy charging of 100 kW. BYD has an opportunity to equip the vehicle with a heat pump which would ensure the cabin temperature is relatively more efficient and ensure comfort. Additional information should be disclosed at the Japan Mobility Show.
BYD will be in a position to introduce the first kei car in Japan with a favorable price. It might cost around JPY 2.5 million (Rs 14.38 lakh) to start. This price will make BYD kei car more affordable than other competitors such as Nissan Sakura and Mitsubishi eK X EV. The performance of BYD first kei car will be interesting to monitor against the local Japanese brands. To date, the kei car market in Japan is dominated by Honda and Daihatsu as well as Suzuki.
The Legacy of Kei Cars in Japan
The introduction of BYD in the key car sector in Japan will be a new era to the history of key car. They were initiated in 1949, and their main purpose was to stimulate the resurgence in the economy following the World War II. Kei cars were cheap, economical in fuel consumption and small size made them easily accessible in any place within the urban centers with narrow streets. The small size also comes in handy when it comes to solving the problem of parking. Low taxes and affordable third-party liability insurance are offered on the Kei cars in Japan.
